Steelers Reportedly Expect Aaron Rodgers to Return for 2026 Season

Pittsburgh's top brass believes the veteran QB will play another year, but they're waiting for his definitive answer.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 1:55pm

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The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly confident that quarterback Aaron Rodgers will return to play for them in the 2026 NFL season, according to team sources. However, the Steelers are waiting for Rodgers to provide a definitive answer on his plans before they can speak with certainty about the situation.

Why it matters

Rodgers' decision will have major implications for the Steelers' quarterback plans this offseason. If he returns, Pittsburgh likely won't need to pursue other veteran options. But if Rodgers retires or joins another team, the Steelers could be left without a clear starter, forcing them to explore trade or free agent possibilities.

The details

Steelers general manager Omar Khan and head coach Mike McCarthy have publicly stated their desire for Rodgers to play another year with the team. While Khan said Rodgers' departure wouldn't be a "worst-case scenario," there are doubts about whether the team is as high on 2025 sixth-round pick Will Howard as they've suggested. The Steelers have been linked to other veteran QBs like Kyler Murray and Geno Smith, but are unlikely to pursue them if Rodgers commits to returning.

  • In January, Rodgers had positive exit meetings with the Steelers.
  • In the weeks since, the organization has maintained consistent communication with Rodgers.
  • The Steelers expect to get a decision from Rodgers in the next few weeks.

The players

Aaron Rodgers

Veteran quarterback who has been the subject of speculation about his future with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Omar Khan

General manager of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Mike McCarthy

Head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Will Howard

Steelers' 2025 sixth-round draft pick who has yet to take meaningful NFL snaps.

Kyler Murray

Quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals who has been linked to the Steelers.

Geno Smith

Quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders who has been linked to the Steelers.

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What they’re saying

“The best way to describe the Steelers' feelings: They think Rodgers is going to return for 2026, but until he gives them a definitive answer, they can't speak in certain terms.”

— Mike DeFabo, Steelers reporter

“I wouldn't necessarily classify it as a worst-case scenario [if Rodgers retires or joins another team].”

— Omar Khan, Steelers general manager

What’s next

The Steelers are waiting for Rodgers to provide a definitive answer on his plans for the 2026 season in the next few weeks. This timeline could impact their ability to pursue other quarterback options in free agency.

The takeaway

The Steelers' quarterback situation remains uncertain, with the team hopeful that veteran Aaron Rodgers will return for another season, but waiting on his final decision. This saga will have major implications for Pittsburgh's offseason plans and their search for a long-term solution at the game's most important position.